Sit & Reflect..

PSA: I’m posting from my phone, so I apologize if the formatting is different than usual.

As I’ve mentioned numerous times before, I’m happier now than I’ve ever been in my life.

The best part is, for once in my life, my happiness isn’t dependent on outside influences. My happiness is because of me, and only me.

Yesterday, I was traveling to work on the train when I saw a friend. We sat and talked during the journey and he said: “when I met you, I thought you were the most independent, strong, and inspiring woman I’ve ever met.” He went on to mention how living abroad alone isn’t an easy feat, but I’ve accomplished it like a cake walk. Lastly, he praised my choice to do anything I want and be successful in each and every one of those choices.

Being the awkward turtle that I am, I brushed these compliments off. I thought to myself “anyone could do what I’m doing.” But now that I’ve had time to reflect on this conversation, I realized that isn’t true. So many of my friends and family back in Minnesota told me they’d never leave and that I had an abundance of strength and bravery for moving 5,000 miles away from home ALONE.

No, I’m not throwing shade at my friends and family that don’t want to leave Minnesota, I’m giving myself the credit I deserve.

I’m 100% comfortable with tooting my own horn and feeling the highest level of praise for my damn self.

The point of all this is to finally realize why I’m so happy on my own. I’m fiercely independent, resilient, and hard-working, so there’s not much that will stop me from achieving my goals and enjoying every step of the process.

Time and time again, I think of my mother because if it wasn’t for her, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. My mother accomplished more than I ever could. Plus, she was an immigrant that didn’t speak the language. I don’t think there’s anyone that could go through everything she’s gone through and come out on top like the graceful, intelligent, multi-talented, beautiful woman she is. S/O to you, Adhel. ❤️

Today is a special day for me. I’m hosting my first meet-up as the Berlin Ambassador for International TEFL Academy. Never in a million years did I think I would be in this position, but look, I’m here. I’m beyond excited and thankful to be in the position I am today.